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The emergence of COVID-19 has impacted nearly every aspect of our lives, including how we travel and enjoy vacations. And if you’re like most people, you may be itching for a long-overdue getaway. The good news is many coronavirus-related travel restrictions are loosening, but there are still a few important things to keep in mind before you start browsing vacation rentals and packing your bags.   

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Domestic Travel

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First and foremost, the COVID-19 crisis is a rapidly evolving situation—travel guidelines in place today may look different in a few months. Nevertheless, here’s what the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has to say as of April 2021:   

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Vaccinated Travelers

Travelers who are fully vaccinated with an FDA-authorized COVID-19 vaccine can enjoy travel within the United States without needing to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test (unless their specific destination requires it—make sure you double check). Travelers are considered to be “fully vaccinated” two weeks after the second dose of the Moderna or Pfizer vaccine, or two weeks after a single-dose vaccine. It’s still important to wear a mask in all public places and to follow social distancing measures.  

Click here to learn about your destination’s local and state travel requirements.

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Unvaccinated Travelers

Here’s a brief overview of the CDC’s recommendations for unvaccinated travelers:

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Before your trip: 

• Receive a rapid COVID-19 test one to three days before you begin traveling. If you test positive for COVID-19, do not travel.

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During your trip:  

• Wear a mask that covers your mouth and nose in all public places.

• Avoid large crowds and try to stay at least six feet away from others who are not in your group.

• Wash your hands frequently and use hand sanitizer.  

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After your trip: 

• Receive a COVID-19 test three to five days after traveling and stay home for seven days.  

• If you don’t get a COVID-19 test, stay home for a full 10 days after traveling. 

• Avoid people who are at an increased risk of severe illness (seniors, immunocompromised individuals, and those with certain chronic conditions) for two weeks after traveling. 

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International Travel  

COVID-19 travel requirements vary by country. To see what restrictions are associated with your destination, click here. Furthermore, all travelers flying into the United States are required to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test (performed no more than three days before travel) or recent recovery from COVID-19 prior to boarding a plane, including U.S. citizens.

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Vaccinated Travelers  

Fully vaccinated people who are traveling internationally should:

• Have a thorough understanding of all airline and destination country requirements regarding travel, quarantine, and testing.

• Wear a mask in all public places and follow social distancing guidelines.

• Wash their hands frequently and use hand sanitizer.  

• Receive a COVID-19 test three to five days after traveling.

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Unvaccinated Travelers  

Unvaccinated people should avoid traveling internationally at this time. However, if traveling is necessary, the CDC recommends that you:

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• Receive a rapid COVID-19 test one to three days before traveling. If you test positive, do not travel.

• Have a thorough understanding of all airline and destination country requirements regarding travel, quarantine, and testing. You should also check the severity of COVID-19 in your destination.

• Wear a mask in all public places and follow social distancing guidelines.

• Wash your hands frequently and use hand sanitizer.   

• Receive a COVID-19 test three to five days after your trip and stay at home for seven days.

• Stay home for a full 10 days after your trip if you don’t get a test. 

• Avoid being around people who have an increased risk of severe illness for a full 14 days after traveling.

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COVID-19 Testing Services at Lifeline Urgent Care

Lifeline Urgent Care in Houston, Texas, offers a full spectrum of COVID-19 testing without an appointment, including rapid PCR and antigen tests. Our patients receive email documentation of their test results, which is accepted by all major airlines. Contact us today to learn more.